Description

This presentation will demonstrate how accurate identification and documentation of malnutrition can enhance resident care while supporting improved reimbursement opportunities. Unique insights include integrating nutrition-focused assessments with compliance strategies to maximize both clinical and financial outcomes. The session will highlight the critical role of the dietitian in a long-term care setting to optimize resident outcomes. 

Methodologies include: (1) Chart Review & Audit Process, (2) Implementation of a Malnutrition Protocol (e.g. Mini Nutrition Assessment), (3) Provide in-service education to RDs, nurses, and physicians on malnutrition criteria, documentation language, and ICD-10 coding, and (4) Data Tracking & Reporting. 

Measurable results include: (1) Clinical Outcomes: Percentage of residents accurately identified as malnourished or at risk for malnutrition (e.g., from 15% to 35% over six months), (2) Operational Outcomes: Charting accuracy rates (e.g., % of complete MNA documentation) and time delays between RD identification and physician documentation, (3) Financial Outcomes: Appropriate reimbursement for malnutrition-related diagnoses (e.g., measured through PDPM case-mix index or revenue impact per resident) and more. 

Presenter: Angela Gardener, MS, RDN, CSG, LDN 

Angela Gardener, MS, RDN, CSG, LDN, is a registered dietitian nutritionist with more than 20 years of experience in senior care, specializing in clinical nutrition, regulatory compliance, quality improvement, and dining operations. She is board-certified in gerontological nutrition by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and serves as a subject matter expert in geriatric nutrition and nutrition care for older adults. She reviewed, revised, and updated the Geriatric Nutrition, Liberalized Diets in Long-Term Care, and Nutrition for Long-Term Care chapters of the 2025 Florida Diet Manual, incorporating current evidence-based practice, clinical guidelines, and regulatory standards to support high-quality nutrition care across Florida's senior care communities. Angela is a doctoral candidate in clinical nutrition at the University of North Florida and is actively engaged in research examining registered dietitian nutritionist staffing, clinical outcomes, and optimal nutrition therapy delivery in senior care settings. She is passionate about supporting older adults, emphasizing resident choice and liberalized diets to enhance quality of life and the dining experience. Outside of her professional life, Angela enjoys spending time with family and friends and relaxing at the beach.

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Continuing Education: This activity has been approved for 1 continuing education credit for licensed nursing home administrators, nurses, physical therapists, and social workers by the Illinois Health Care Association, an approved sponsor of continuing education by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.